Despite the heat and humidity, we had a great turn out today for games, music, ice cream, and hot dogs with members of the Boston Police Department. Among those mingling at Family Appreciation Day at Harambee Park were BPD Commissioner William Evans, Chief William Gross, members of the BPD Command Staff, members of the local clergy, and of course children and families of all ages! While Officer Kenny Grubbs rocked the music and the mic and Sergeant Gino Provenzano handed out ice cream from the famous BPD Ice Cream Truck, the kids had a hula hoop contest, played badminton, and even challenged the officers to a giant tug-of-war competition!

Commissioner Evans and Chief Gross both agree this is the type of event that brings officers closer to the community they serve. Said Commissioner Evans, "This is just one of the ways we can let people know who we are and to connect with the people in the community. We want to be approachable to the kids and show them we're here to keep them safe."